Atreyu

Suicide Notes and Butterfly Kisses (Victory)
by Tim Den

I’ve never heard a better American Dark Tranquillity. I don’t mean that in a negative way, either: Atreyu genuinely understand the classical chord progressions and Pompeii-sized breakdowns. Adding a distinctly American touch on top (hyperventilating hardcore vocalist, emo singing) just makes the brew that much stronger. Dueling guitars sprawl across the landscape like thick spider webs upon prey, this album smolders and seethes with brutal darkness. Excellent.
(346 N. Justine St., Ste. 504 Chicago, IL 60607)